Grants for Agribusiness

Agriculture is a very important sector in the economy of the United Sates and the government provides various grants to ensure the success of the agricultural businesses. Grants for agribusiness are provided by the different agencies of the government and unlike loans need not be repaid.

NIFA Small Business Innovation Research Grants

These grants that are offered through the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Agriculture aim to stimulate growth in agribusiness. The Small Business Innovation Research Grants give up to $80,000 for an eight month period for its Phase I and recipients can then apply for the Phase II of the grants will give up to $350,000 for a 24 month period. Only small agribusiness entities with 500 employees or less and 51% owned by citizens of the U.S. are eligible to apply for the grants. Information about the grant are available at the website of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

AMS Farmers Market Promotion Program

Agricultural business can get a shot in the arm through grants for agribusiness given by the U. S. Department of Agriculture through the FMPP that is administered by the Agricultural Marketing Service. Funds given by the FMPP can be used for expansion and improvement of local farmers markets, agriculture programs supported by the community, roadside stands, activities on agricultural tourism, and other opportunities to improve producer to consumer markets. The grants for agribusiness given under this program may be up to $100,000. Eligible to apply to this program are agricultural cooperatives, networks of producers, producer associations, and corporations involved in economic development. Applicants must be able to establish how their proposals can benefit farmers and vendors of agricultural products. Information about the application process and requirements are available at the AMS website.

Rural Development Value-Added Producer Grants

Offered by the Office for Rural Development, U.S. Department of Agriculture, these grants for agribusiness are awarded through the Value-Added Producer Grants. Projects funded by the program must have a value-added product in agriculture. Eligible to apply in this grant program are independent agricultural producers, agriculture and ranch cooperatives, and agricultural business ventures that are producer-based. Information about the grant may be obtained from: